SUNRISE, FL – Florida Panthers Assistant General Manager Randy Sexton announced today that the club has acquired the exclusive negotiating rights for the Phoenix Coyotes C Steve Reinprecht (REIGN-prehkt) in exchange for Florida Panthers prospect C Stefan Meyer. In addition, the club announced they have agreed to terms with Reinprecht on a three-year contract. As per club policy, financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“Steve is a smart, high character, hard working player who fits our club’s need for a second line center,” said Sexton. “We are constantly looking to upgrade our team speed and he brings this to our club as part of his skill set. He also possesses an ability to win face-offs, another area our team looked to improve on this off-season. Steve served as an assistant Captain in Phoenix and played an important role with Colorado winning the 2001 Stanley Cup. We look forward to the championship attitude and experience he will add to our team.”

Reinprecht, 33, has recorded at least 40 points in five of his eight NHL playing seasons, including a pair of 50-plus point seasons (2002-03/2005-06) and a Stanley Cup championship with Colorado in 2001. He recorded a career high 52 points (22-30-52) during the 2005-06 season, while playing for both Calgary and Phoenix.

The Edmonton, Alberta native has played in 552 NHL games for Los Angeles (1999-2001), Colorado (2001-03), Calgary (2003-04/2005-06) and Phoenix (2006-09) scoring 120 goals with 214 assists and 162 PIM. He has appeared in 50 postseason games, all with Colorado (2000-03), recording 20 points (10-10-20).

Reinprecht played four years at the University of Wisconsin (1996-2000). He lead the Badgers and the nation in Division 1 scoring with 66 points (20-44-66) in his senior season, earning WCHA player of the year honors, while also being nominated as a Hobey Baker Finalist.

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